Hawai‘i Adopts Rules to Protect Animals at Sea

In Hawai‘i, regulations are now in place to protect cattle, sheep, goats, and other farmed animals transported via barge between the state’s islands. Governor Green signed off on the rules nearly a year after the Hawai‘i Board of Agriculture voted to approve them. Prior to the board’s approval, AWI had provided oral and written testimony and—in partnership with local and national groups—submitted comments in support of the protections.

Among the requirements now in place: Animals must have access to clean water and adequate ventilation in staging areas. They must be loaded last at departure and unloaded first upon arrival at destination ports. On board, they cannot be placed in locations that produce excessive heat or restrict airflow. The new rules also prohibit inter-island transport of injured, ill, lame, blind, unweaned, or late-stage pregnant animals. 

Program Terms: Farmed Animals

AWI Quarterly Terms: Government/Legal